Bisphenol A facts for kids
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a special kind of chemical. It has two parts that are similar to a chemical called phenol. BPA is used to make many things, especially a type of clear, strong plastic called polycarbonate. It's also used in epoxy resins and other products.
Scientists found out in the mid-1930s that BPA can act a bit like a hormone in the body, specifically like oestrogen. Hormones are chemical messengers that tell your body what to do. Because of these findings, some stores stopped selling products made with BPA in 2008. Many news stories also talked about whether BPA was safe.
In 2010, a report from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said that touching or being around BPA might be harmful to unborn babies (called fetuses), very young babies, and small children. Later that year, in September 2010, Canada became the first country to officially say that BPA was a toxic substance. Because of these concerns, BPA is not allowed in baby bottles in the European Union and Canada.
Contents
Where is BPA Found?
BPA is used in many products we see every day. It's a key ingredient in making polycarbonate plastic, which is strong and clear. This plastic is used for things like water bottles, food containers, and even safety glasses.
BPA is also used to make epoxy resins. These resins are often used as a protective lining inside metal food and drink cans. This lining helps keep the food fresh and prevents the metal from rusting.
Health Concerns About BPA
The main concern about BPA is how it might affect our bodies, especially because it can act like a hormone. Scientists are still studying all the possible effects. Some studies suggest it might affect how our bodies grow and develop, especially in young children.
Governments and health organizations around the world have looked closely at BPA. Their goal is to make sure products are safe for everyone. This is why some countries have put rules in place, like banning BPA from baby bottles.
What Governments Are Doing
Different countries have taken steps to address concerns about BPA.
- The United States FDA has continued to study BPA and its effects, especially on young children.
- Canada was the first country to declare BPA as a toxic substance. They have also banned it from baby bottles.
- The European Union has also banned BPA from baby bottles and continues to review its safety in other products.
These actions show that governments are paying attention to scientific research and trying to protect public health, especially for the most vulnerable groups like babies and young children.
Images for kids
-
People are most exposed to BPA from food packaging. This includes the epoxy lining inside metal food and beverage cans, and also plastic bottles.
See also
In Spanish: Bisfenol A para niños
